Anoka-Hennepin Teachers Optimistic About Changes

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Some teachers in the Anoka-Hennepin school district say new guidelines which encourage the discussion of controversial topics in the classroom could help improve the atmosphere for gay and lesbian students.

The current policy on sexual orientation says it is not part of the curriculum and is best addressed in homes, churches and other community organizations. If it does come up, teachers should stay neutral.

Teachers say the rule has stifled classroom discussions of the topic, and that has probably led to the harassment of gay students.

The district’s administration is proposing to swap that policy for one that explicitly recognizes the importance of tackling controversial topics, but says teachers can’t advocate for their personal beliefs.

The school board is scheduled to discuss the proposal on Monday night.

I think teachers should stay neutral but allow discussion about these issues. There will always be people for it and against it. College professors bring up “hot topic” issues all the time. We debate them and out professors stay neutral. They just make sure things everyone respects one another. It shouldn’t matter if you agree or disagree with this, just respect one another, listen to each others points and views. Just be respectful. I think that is what people lack now, respect.